President Donald Trump has named Will Scharf as his new White House counsel, effective September 1, replacing David Warrington, who will join the private sector. Scharf, a longtime Trump ally, previously led the National Capital Planning Commission, which approved the $400 million White House ballroom project.
Scharf’s Role in the White House Ballroom Project
The commission, which Scharf chaired, oversees construction and renovations of federal buildings in the region. However, a divided federal appeals court ruled Friday that construction must pause because Congress had not approved the project, though Trump has vowed to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court.
The NCPC also approved a separate $100 million “Triumphal Arch” project, further highlighting Scharf’s involvement in shaping the president’s real estate agenda.
Warrington’s Departure and Scharf’s Background
David Warrington, Trump’s current White House counsel, will leave the administration to join the private sector, though the specific role remains unclear. Trump praised Warrington as having done a truly outstanding job
and noted his service during the 2024 campaign. Warrington, a former personal attorney for Trump, had been a key figure in navigating legal challenges, including Supreme Court cases involving executive power.
Scharf, 40, has served as White House staff secretary since 2025, managing the flow of documents to the president’s desk. He is known for handing Trump executive orders during signing ceremonies, a role that earned him the nickname the folder guy.
A graduate of Princeton University and Harvard Law School, Scharf previously worked as a federal prosecutor and represented Trump in multiple cases, including his Supreme Court battles over presidential immunity.
Trump’s announcement emphasized Scharf’s loyalty and legal acumen, quoting him as saying: Will is Tough, Strong, and Smart!
He also loves our Country, and respects the Law.
Will Scharf will do a great job as White House Counsel!
Political Context and Implications
The transition occurs as Trump’s Republican Party faces critical midterm elections, with Democrats vowing to investigate the administration if they gain control of Congress. The White House counsel’s office plays a central role in managing legal and policy matters, including interactions with the Justice Department, judicial appointments, and congressional inquiries. Scharf’s appointment signals a continuity of Trump’s legal team, following the confirmation of Todd Blanche as attorney general and other loyalists in key roles.
Scharf’s influence extends beyond legal matters. During his tenure as NCPC chair, he oversaw approvals for projects tied to Trump’s real estate ventures, including the ballroom and the Triumphal Arch. A report by The New York Times noted that Scharf warned against suspending habeas corpus protections for undocumented immigrants, a policy proposed by Stephen Miller, Trump’s deputy chief of staff.
Trump’s decision to promote Scharf reflects his emphasis on loyalty and experience. The president highlighted Scharf’s “amazing job” in his current role and his “top student” credentials from Princeton and Harvard.
Unresolved Questions and Ongoing Developments
While the transition is set for September 1, several questions remain unresolved. The status of the White House ballroom project, pending a Supreme Court appeal, remains uncertain. Additionally, the specifics of Warrington’s private-sector role and Scharf’s immediate priorities as White House counsel are unclear.
For now, the focus remains on the transition and its implications for Trump’s second term. As the midterm elections approach, the role of the White House counsel in managing legal and political challenges will likely grow in significance.